Compulsory ID Cards

Speech by Proposer: John Faulkner Seconder: David Whitcroft delivered to Surrey Heath Borough Council on Wed 11th Oct 2006

This Council notes the recent Government bill introducing compulsory ID Cards to the UK and that , according to Government estimates, the cost of such a scheme could reach £6 billion, with independent commentators predicting costs of as much as £18 billion,

This Council believes:

• That the disadvantages of such a scheme outweigh any benefits to the people of Surrey Heath

• That the cards will do nothing to prevent terrorism, crime or fraud.

• That the introduction of compulsory ID cards will hit the most vulnerable and poorest in our society,

The Council therefore resolves to:

1. Affiliate to the "No2ID" campaign, which already includes MP's across several political parties;

2. Make representations at every possible stage, reiterating this Council's opposition to ID cards;

3. Take no part in any pilot scheme or feasibility work in relation to the introduction of the national identity cards;

4. Make it a policy of the Council to ensure that national identity cards would not be required to access council services or benefits unless specifically called to do so by an Act of Parliament;

5. Only co-operate with the national identity card scheme where specifically required to do so by law;

6. Request the Chief Executive to write to the Home Secretary expressing these views and asking him to reconsider his decision to push forward this legislation.